Why use Tropicamide after eye surgery?

[Joe888]

My daughter had laser surgery to treat ROP and was asked to use (3 times per day) Tropicamide, together with Pred Forte for ten days. What's the purpose of using Tropicamide, which is mainly for dilate pupils for eye examination? Thanks.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

It is used to reduce discomfort by relaxing the ciliary muscle, also keeps pupil open to prevent scarring down of pupil (synechia) and also keeps pupil open for easier retinal viewing on the next visit.  Adult retinal surgeons often use atropine or homatropine (much stronger) to do the same thing after adult retinal surgery to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Michael Kutryb, MD